Useful information for new officer cadets

Warsash Maritime Academy is part of Solent University’s Warsash School of Maritime Science and Engineering.

You’ll be sent further information about what you need to do before you start at Warsash. However, we’ve put together some information here that answers some of the most commonly asked questions we get from new phase one cadets before they join us.

Cadets will study at the University's maritime centre in a dedicated building at the St Mary's campus, located within the grounds of Southampton City College, in Southampton city centre.

Cadets also have use of the University's David Moxon and Emily Davies student residences. Both residences are located in Southampton city centre and are a short walk from the St Mary's and the main East Park Terrace campuses.

During your time at Warsash you’ll have access to the University’s excellent student support network. The Student Hub is located in the main concourse of the Andrews building at the University's main East Park Terrace campus. The Student Hub is your first point of contact for queries relating to your studies. Student advisers can also offer support on personal issues, as well as health and wellbeing, and specialist support such as counselling, money advice and chaplaincy. There is also dedicated support for students who may have specific additional learning requirements..

All cadets are expected to wear a college uniform. Details (including a list of suppliers) are provided in your joining instructions. The uniform generally consists of a white shirt with cadet epaulettes, black or company tie, black trousers or skirt, and navy blue NATO-style pullover with cadet epaulettes. Uniform must be worn at all times when you’re on campus (between 08.30 and 17.00); this includes classrooms and social areas.

There’s no need to buy any textbooks before you start, unless you’ve been specifically advised to do so in your joining instructions. You’ll be provided with a recommended book list by your tutors early in your course, and the library has a number of copies of each text book for loan.

If you’re absent through sickness, you must inform your course tutor and email the course support team. You must also always inform your sponsoring company.